Midas Avenue Apartments, another proposed affordable housing project, sparks heated debate in Rocklin

A decision on yet another controversial affordable housing project that would be built near a busy intersection will have to wait despite a six-hour discussion with city officials on Aug. 25. The Rocklin City Council voted to continue its review of the proposed Midas Avenue Apartments to Oct. 13 after residents and concerned neighbors objected to the project's location at Midas Avenue and Pacific Street, one of the city's busiest intersections. The proposal comes as Rocklin, like many other California cities, attempts to provide homes for moderate- and lower-income families in a high-priced housing market. The Midas Avenue Apartments is a planned 281 unit complex of one-, two-, and three-bedroom units ranging in size from 559 square feet to 1,170 square feet. Amenities include a 381 space parking lot, a playground, landscaping, and a community space. The project is designed to provide housing for households earning between 30 and 70 percent of the area median income, or roughly $37,250 to $89, 917 depending on size of household and $86,000 per single person. Discussion of the proposed apartment complex has been ongoing since early 2025, with numerous city council meetings and online community exchanges. The Midas Avenue apartments would be built on the now vacant lot on the corner of Midas Avenue and Pacific Street across from several smaller local businesses. The parcel is included in the city's 2021 Housing Element Regional Housing Needs Allocation Inventory. The 7.1 acre lot has been vacant for years, though past proposals for the site include a previously approved 204-unit multi-family and retail project known as the 'Rocklin Gateway' that was approved in 2017. However, the title expired and was never renewed. The Midas Avenue Apartment proposal has generated concerns from residents who live off Midas Avenue and in the surrounding neighborhoods. Residents claim it's already dangerous to get in and out of their driveways, go on runs or walks, or even allow their children to walk to and from school. Other residents worry about the additional traffic this project will bring, saying traffic is already difficult enough with the existing train tracks, elementary school, and middle school in the neighborhood. City officials said residents are encouraged to ask questions, or share their thoughts or concerns about the project prior to the Oct. 13 council meeting. Residents may also comment during the meeting.